This course explores ways in which various teaching methods, materials, and assessments foster independent and strategic uses of literacy for young students in grades 4 through 8. Students (teacher candidates) will explore and participate in literacy as a social, cultural, and psychological process. The emphasis will be on upper elementary/middle level students and how they learn and create meaning in their lives through literacy. Students will study ways to integrate literacy learning across all school subjects through a wide application of varied “texts” to meet both mandated curricular purposes and the needs of diverse learners. Students will learn to select multiple materials and assessments to identify young learners’ strengths and needs, and engage in best practice to meet literacy instructional needs for the grade 4 through 8 students. This course includes Michigan Framework standards. Designed for students seeking K-8 certification.